Dog Urinary Problems

After you recognize the symptoms of dog urinary problems, there are several ways to help alleviate the discomfort.

Symptoms

• Frequent urination. Dogs with urinary tract infections have the urge to urinate even when the bladder is almost empty. You know there is a problem when your dog used to hold it all day, but now can hardly wait to get outside. No sooner than he comes back inside does he want to go back out again.
• Straining to urinate. They'll take longer than usual and will strain to make things happen, often without results.
• Painful urination. An infection can make the urethra raw and irritated. Dogs will experience a stinging sensation while urinating. Notice if your dog licks his genitals. This is often done to soothe the pain.
• Dark or bloody urine. Dogs with urinary tract infections often have blood in urine. The urine often has a usually foul or strong odor.

Helpful Tips

1. Provide frequent potty breaks. When urine remains in the bladder for too long, any bacteria that happens to be floating there has more time to multiply. So, let your dog out as often as he needs to go. It will keep your furry friend more comfortable and help rid the bladder of bacteria.
2. Pour some juice. Cranberry, orange, and other citrus juices boost the acidity of urine, reducing the number of bacteria in the urine and easing painful urination. The problem is getting your dog to drink it. If he won't drink it straight, mix an ounce or two of juice with his breakfast for 2 to 3 days.
3. Pour more water. Encourage your dog to drink more water, so he will urinate more often. This will help flush bacteria from the bladder.
4. Get those paws moving. Take your dog for extra walks around the neighborhood. This will also flush bacteria from the bladder.

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